Fall Gardens: Plants bulbs now for colorful spring displays

K-State horticulture expert says Kansas options extend beyond tulips, daffodils

Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini knows that die-hard flower gardeners are thinking about planting bulbs as fall rolls around.

While tulips and daffodils are among gardener’s favorites, Domenghini said there are many other bulb varieties that can be planted in Kansas for a colorful spring show, namely:

• Hyacinth.
• Allium.
• Asiatic Lily.
• Crocus.
• Snowdrops.
• Oriental Lily.

“Spring-flowering bulbs can be planted from now through October, giving them time to establish roots before winter,” Domenghini said.

She suggests that gardeners pick a spot with full sun to part shade.

“Ideally, the soil should be sandy loam, but if not, amend it by adding compost to a depth of at least one foot,” Domenghini said. “Good drainage is essential. Incorporate fertilizer only if recommended, based on a soil test. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.0.”

The size of the bulb determines the planting depth, she adds. Tulips and hyacinths are typically planted six inches deep, while daffodil-sized bulbs should be 6-8 inches deep. In general, bulbs should be planted 2-3 times as deep as their width.

“Space large bulbs 4-6 inches apart,” Domenghini said. “Small bulbs can be spaced 1-2 inches apart. Mass plantings create a more aesthetically-pleasing display when spring blooms emerge.”

She adds: “Backfill each hole halfway and water in to settle the soil. Replace the remaining soil and water again. Though you will not see above-ground growth in the fall, roots are still growing. Keep the soil moist and add mulch after the soil freezes to provide insulation and prevent bulbs from being heaved out of the soil.”

Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.

Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to Domenghini at [email protected], or contact your local K-State Research and Extension office.

PHOTO: Woman planting tulip bulbs in a flower bed during a beautiful sunny autumn afternoon. (iStock – AndreaObzerova)